Seasonal Parasite ControlSpring

The season of sunshine, showers and lighter nights is upon us! Anyone with horses can’t fail to have noticed the tantalising signs of spring in the air despite the occasional nip. It’s enough to cheer the soul even if we have got off with a relatively kind winter this time in most parts of the UK.

High counts for redworm

Unfortunately the milder weather, however good for us, should raise alarm bells for our worming as parasites also seem to have been enjoying the climate. Results from the lab suggest they’ve been pretty active over the early parts of 2017. In one week in early March nearly 20% of horses tested returned high worm counts of over 1,200epg for redworm with a significant number of these over 3,000.

This is a much higher incidence than usually seen. Regular temperatures over six degrees Celsius, low levels of UV light and wet ground are the probable culprits. Couple this with a lifecycle of around 5-6 weeks and a redworm challenge can quickly take hold within a horse to become a problem.

If you gave the suggested winter dose for the possibility of encysted redworm then now is the time to resume the regular testing programme. Don't delay your worm counts this Spring to make sure you're on top of any potential problems.

Tapeworm time

We’re also advised to consider tapeworm in Spring and Autumn. If you’ve haven’t done any testing or treatment in the last 6 months then this would be recommended, our preference always being to test first. Target tapeworm with an EquiSal saliva test to determine whether you need to dose or not; only 23% of horses tested for tapeworm actually need a wormer for it!

Pinworm

The other parasite to keep an eye out for is the perennial pinworm problem which has also been prevalent this spring – perhaps because horses are kept in closer confinement over the winter and so are more likely to reinfect themselves from where they rub.

Watch for signs of tail rubbling or discomfort, a sticky substance around the anus or bean sprout type worms appearing in the droppings. Check with an adhesive tape test if you suspect a problem.

Mares & Foals

If you’re expecting foals on the ground this year congratulations! Foals and youngstock require much more proactive treatment than older horses, you can find our handy guide for worming mares and foals here.

Stay vigilant this Spring and if you need any help with your worming then please contact our friendly team for free, veterinary approved advice.

4Count PLUS

The simplest way to organise your routine tests for the year is with our great value 4Count PLUS pack – a handy season pack containing everything you need for four worm counts and two EquiSal tests.